Research Scientist I- Plant & Insect Biology

At Syngenta, we believe every employee has a role to play in safely feeding the world and taking care of our planet. To support that challenge, the Seeds Research team is currently seeking a Scientist I located in Durham, NC at our Research Triangle Park Innovation Center.

Role purpose

• The Scientist position will serve as a key member for insectary control programs by focusing on plant-based evaluations of GM / GE crop plants in biotech platforms of Seeds Research  
• The main responsibility of the position is to develop, design, execute, and coordinate plant bioassays and gene-efficacy evaluation experiments in greenhouses and growth chambers
• The successful candidate will work closely with other scientists in plant entomology, plant physiology, crop science, molecular biology, data science to deliver comprehensive results of data and products
• Perform all activities in accordance with Syngenta Health, Safety, and Environmental Policy

Accountabilities

• Apply depth and/or breadth of knowledge and experience to recognize greenhouse problems and find solutions
• Collect data and work with databases; interpret and present the data to projects and stake holders
• Perform routine activities including planting, watering, tissue sampling, pollination, harvesting, seed processing; scout and apply pesticides and biologicals to control diseases and pests
• Clear communication of work and results with supervisor and team
• Develop new procedures/standards of plant bioassay and phenotyping, test and implement innovative ideas and concepts to optimize assay process and plant management
• Provides appropriate documentation for, ensuring the capture of intellectual property
• May also lead multi-disciplinary projects
• Willing and able to work during weekends and holidays

Critical success factors & key challenges

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Understanding of project timelines and deliverables
• Functioning as a member of a cross-functional team
• Embrace Syngenta quality management and stewardship practices

Critical knowledge

• Excellent knowledge of plant physiology, plant entomology, soil science, and agronomy
• Expertise in the interactions between crop plants and agronomically important insects

• Understanding of genetics and biotechnologies
• Knowledge of greenhouse equipment and operations, and IPM

Critical experience

• Degree in plant biology, agronomy, entomology, or closely related discipline from an accredited university;  Minimum entry qualification of Bachelor’s degree with 8+ years of experience,  or a Master’s degree with 4+ years of experience, or Ph.D. with 2+ years of experience.
• Experience working with a major field crop such as corn and soybean
• Practical Preferred experience performing plant phenotyping by using advanced high-throughput technologies such as imaging
• Experience in designing and conducting bioassays under controlled environments
• Experience of supervising / coaching less experienced staff

Critical technical, professional and personal capabilities

• Demonstrated excellence as a team player
• Demonstrated ability and motivation to work in unsupervised situations
• Computer skills such as working with databases, environmental controls, and Microsoft Office
• Excellent record keeping skills and demonstrated attention to detail
• Good verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to perform all physical aspects required in greenhouse activities
• Able to take initiative to improve processes and troubleshoot problems
• Able to organize well and adhere to deadlines
• Commitment and adherence to specific stewardship and quality management practices is essential

Candidates must reside in the United States and be able to work without visa sponsorship - now or in the future

What We Offer:

• Full Benefit Package (Medical, Dental & Vision) that starts the same day you do.
• 401k plan with company match, Profit Sharing & Retirement Savings Contribution.
• Open Vacation Policy with a minimum of 15 days of vacation and up to 30 days with manager approval, plus paid holidays.
• Maternity/Paternity Leave, Education Assistance, Wellness Programs and Corporate Discounts among other benefits.
• A culture that celebrates diversity & inclusion, promotes professional development and strives for a work-life balance that supports the team members.

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Syngenta is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate in recruitment, hiring, training, promotion or any other employment practices for reasons of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, sexual orientation, marital or veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status.